Equestrians with trail riding experience are invited to take a guided ride on Hall Canyon and Helo Trail in the Black Star Wilderness Area this Friday, June 26. Participants will travel through oak woodlands, grasslands and coastal sage scrub while learning about the area’s history and natural resources.
The ride offers views of local canyons, red rock formations and wildflowers native to the region. Riders will also see evidence of the area’s ranching past, when cattle once roamed the landscape, as well as signs of more recent uses of the land, including a helicopter landing area and a large metal ball and chain once used by the military and Orange County Fire Authority for training.
The activity is open to equestrians who have trail riding experience and can provide their own fit and able horse. Participants must transport their horses to the staging area. Organizers note that trail conditions include gravel and rocky creek areas and advise owners of unshod horses to take that into consideration.
Advance registration is required and walk-up registration will not be permitted. Participants must arrive with all necessary equipment, including water, proper attire, closed-toe footwear, first-aid supplies and any personal health-related items.
Riders may arrive up to 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to prepare their horses. Organizers will contact participants regarding trailer details and parking instructions.
Restrooms will be available at the staging area, although facilities will not be sanitized for each individual use.
All participants must sign a liability waiver upon arrival and before beginning the activity. Organizers said participants may be prevented from taking part if they do not adhere to the required protocols.
Organizers also ask individuals not to register or attend if they are feeling unwell, exhibiting symptoms of illness or have recently been in contact with someone who was ill.
The ride is classified as a level-3 activity. Participants are encouraged to review the organization’s 1-through-5 difficulty ratings and consult the FAQ page before registering.
